What policy areas did you focus on as a student?
Education
What policy areas became your focus post-degree?
Education
What is your current position?
Academic education lead at Information Technology Academy, UW–Madison
What type of work do you do in this position?
I work at UW–Madison’s DoIT pre-college program, the Information Technology Academy where I manage the academic curriculum, plan enrichment activities, and supervise student staff. Ongoing projects include creating meaningful learning opportunities that foster student growth and community engagement.
How have you gotten from La Follette to where you are now?
I am a double-Badger with a bachelor’s degree in international studies, certificates in Chican@ & Latin@ studies, public policy, and a Master of Public Affairs. My path has brought me to develop skills in mentoring, academic advising, policy writing, program and policy analysis, strategic communication, DEIB, and inclusive leadership. While in grad school, I was passionate about student-led DEIB initiatives to facilitate a more inclusive learning environment and apply a DEI lens to public policy training. Now, I work at a UW–Madison pre-college program focused on technology training and leadership development for underrepresented students in Wisconsin.
How have you used what you learned during your time at La Follette on the job?
During my time at La Follette, I was involved in many student-led DEI efforts to help center diverse voices and build community. I learned a great deal about how to facilitate cross-collaboration and partnerships with staff, students, and faculty which has helped me in my current role as I continue to support students in their academic pursuits and leadership development.
What courses did you take during your time at La Follette that have most contributed to you becoming a success in your current career?
PA 873: Introduction to Policy Analysis with David Weimer
PA 871: Public Program Evaluation with Lauren Schmitz
PA 765: Issues in Educational Policy Analysis with Erica Turner
CHICLA 347: Race, Ethnicity, and Media with Lori Lopez